The total value of equity on issue by Australian enterprise groups at 30 June 2004 stood at $1,391b (table 30.29). Of this total, 66% related to shares or equivalent equity interests issued by non-financial corporations. Banks accounted for a further 14% of total equity issued, and the other financial enterprises, including life offices and superannuation funds (but excluding non-bank deposit taking institutions), also accounted for 17%. Lesser amounts were issued by non-bank deposittaking institutions (3% of the total) and the central bank (1%).

Of the total equity on issue by Australian enterprise groups at 30 June 2004, non-residents held equity valued at $430b (31%), while residents held $961b (69%).

Although the proportion of equity held by non-residents has remained relatively stable, the total value of equity on issue has increased by 24%, from $1,118b to $1,391b, over the period from 30 June 2000 to 30 June 2004.

Analysed by sectoral components, the value of equity on issue by non-financial corporations rose 16% to $916b over the period 30 June 2000 to 30 June 2004, while the proportion held by non-residents rose from 35% to almost 37%.

The amount issued by banks has increased by 37% between 30 June 2000 and 30 June 2004, while the proportion of non-resident holdings of the total equity issued by banks has risen from 26% to 28% over the same period.

The value of equity issued by life offices, superannuation funds and other financial enterprises increased by 46% over the period from 30 June 2000 to 30 June 2004, with foreign ownership of this equity falling from 12% at 30 June 2000 to 11% at 30 June 2004.

(a) Equity includes units in trusts.(b) Includes private non-financial corporations, and Commonwealth, state and local public non-financial corporations.(c) These estimated market values are considered to be of poor quality. They should be used cautiously.(d) Includes life offices and superannuation funds, central borrowing authorities, and other financial enterprises.(e) Net asset values.(f) There is no foreign ownership in this component.

Source: Australian National Accounts: Financial Accounts (5232.0); Balance of Payments and International Investment Position, Australia (5302.0).